Preliminary July 2023 traffic figures released by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed further growth in international passenger markets, buoyed by the steady resumption of travel within the region and beyond.

The gradual relaxation of travel restrictions by China, the region’s largest passenger market, also drove growth in demand, the association with its headquarters in Kuala Lumpur said.

Overall, 27.2 million international passengers were carried by Asia Pacific airlines in July, a robust 146.6 per cent increase compared to the same month last year.

Demand averaged 81.4 per cent of the corresponding month in 2019.

Measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPKs), demand rose by 107.6 per cent year-on-year, reflecting the relative strength on regional routes.

After accounting for a 98.8 per cent year-on-year expansion in available seat capacity, the average international passenger load factor rose by 3.6 percentage points to 83.7 per cent, in line with levels seen in 2019.

“The start of the second half of the year showed a continuation of the strong recovery trend for Asian airlines, with sustained growth in major Asian economies fuelling the appetite for international travel. Overall, during the first seven months of the year, the region’s airlines carried an aggregate total of 147 million international passengers, a strong 259% increase compared to the previous corresponding period,” said AAPA director general, Subhas Menon.

Looking ahead, the AAPA chief added: “In the passenger business segment, demand is expected to remain strong, underpinning further growth in passenger traffic. Nevertheless, uncertainties in the wider macroeconomic environment, in addition to increased living costs, may eventually lead to cutbacks in spending on travel.

The outlook for Asian airlines remains positive, as carriers continue to grow networks to meet travel demand and return gradually to profitability, whilst maintaining their dedication to safety and sustainability.”

AAPA speaks with a common voice on behalf of Asia Pacific airlines and puts forward Asian perspectives when dealing with governments, aircraft manufacturers, airport authorities and other organisations on industry issues.

Its members include all major Asia-Pacific airlines, including Air India, All Nippon Airways, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways.

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